The Waratahs are slowly building some momentum in this Super Rugby season, after two home wins against the Blues and the Force, but will have to step it up against the Hurricanes in Wellington to keep that run going.

The return of Tatafu Polota-Nau last week means a longer run for the international hooker this week, while there is a return to the bench for Wycliff Palu. Palu will test his fitness in the latter half of the match with Pat McCutcheon starting the match.

Cheika has been forced to juggle his players as a result of injuries, and the returning players will ease the load to the extent that some form of rotation can take place within the squad. After the Hurricanes match, the Waratahs have a bye before a home game against the Chiefs and then tour South Africa.